Feel the freedom when you cruise to Alaska whale watching.
You don't have to look hard to find wild, untamed beauty in Alaska. Even the sky dances when the Northern Lights come out to play, and each of the glaciers have their own personality. Witness the wonders of breaching whales at Kenai Fjords National Park, or play with brightly coloured puffins as you explore the harmony of the Alaskan ecosystem. From the mighty caribou that meander on land at Denali National Park to the seals that own the ocean in Kuskokwim Bay, the web of life is a delicate balance here, and it plays out in front of your eyes. Cheer on your favourite dog sledding team, or take the family on a crabbing expedition in Ketchikan. Whatever your choice of adventure, you'll be amazed by all that Alaska has to offer.
Explore more while spending less with Alaska wildlife and whale-watching experiences onboard our best cruise ships
Wonders of the Wilderness Alaska's rugged landscape is rich with wildlife, and viewing opportunities abound for anyone willing to seek them out. Whether you go on a vigorous hike or float peacefully, your breath will be taken away with your holiday to enjoy the best of Alaska whale watching and wildlife experiences.
A breaching humpback hurls it's 630,000 kg body out of the water, only to crash back down again in a mighty splash. Spy-hopping orcas stand vertically in the water, checking out the view above the surface. Whale-watching excursions from Kenai Fjords National Park, a quick five-minute car ride from the port at Seward, allow you to view these gentle giants against a glacial backdrop as they graze past your boat.
Often spotted hunting, circling high in the sky or perched in a tall evergreen, keeping watch over the area, the majestic bald eagle owns the Alaskan skies. Near the port of call at Sitka, tour the Alaska Raptor Centre, where injured eagles and other raptors such as owls, hawks and falcons are rehabilitated. After watching raptors regain strength and practise survival skills in their Flight Training Centre, you'll leave in awe of the wondrous wingspan and incredible intensity of these flyers.
As you approach the massive glaciers, watch the distant icebergs for small dark specks. Seals haul out on the ice to rest, often leaving their young unattended on the frozen surface. Head to the Alaska SeaLife Center in Seward for an up-close view of these adorable, agile creatures.
A cruise to Alaska is filled with exciting destinations, each with its own style and vibe. Discover Alaska wildlife and whale watching onboard the best Royal Caribbean cruise ships.
Sail inside the calm waterway between sheltering islands and the mainland of Alaska and Canada, known as the Inside Passage. Stunning wilderness and abundant wildlife combine with an occasional whale splash for an unforgettable adventure.
Combine the Alaska cruise with a train adventure aboard the Wilderness Express, Royal Caribbean's luxurious, domed-topped railway carriage designed for optimal viewing of the breathtaking scenery. Be on the lookout for Denali, North America's tallest peak that rises from Denali National Park. This mountain, Alaska's crown jewel, is studded with beautiful wildflowers, lakes, rivers, peaks and majestic wildlife that you don't want to miss.
1
Mosquitoes are common in Alaska, so pack bug repellent, and be sure to keep it handy on shore excursions.
2
Prepare to dress in layers, including a hat and rain jacket, because the temperatures in Alaska can change quickly throughout the day.
3
Tours will involve walking over many different types of terrain, so bring good walking shoes that provide adequate support.